Ellen "Missy: Eckstein, 69, beloved wife of David Burgess, died in her home in Pound Ridge on Monday, March 9th. Missy and David had a deep, devoted love affair for 21 years.

Missy was born in Hempstead, LI, Sept. 23, 1956 to Hariet and Stan Eckstein, becoming the baby sister of two older boys, Chuck and Ken.

Missy was an artistic soul who eschewed school for downtown New York--becoming a regular at CBGB's, Mudd Club, Max's Kansas City--and was beloved for her humor. Luck prevailed one night at the uptown "Prohibition" bar, where she met David who was visiting from England, and the adventure followed them through their 2007 marriage and beyond.

They moved to Fallbrook, CA in 2014 to take care of a friend, and road-tripped back to NYC in 2018 via Rt. 66 to care for Missy's mom. But Missy's happiest place remained a funky old house in the tiny hamlet of Quiogue in the Hamptons, which was always thick with family and friends, and intimate time with her beloved mother. 

Missy and David finally settled in Pound Ridge in 2020 and built a life filled with volunteerism and care of those in need--both human and canine. Missy was a trusted confidante to all, including her friends' children who flourished under her "Auntie" empathy. Missy was also known for her radiant sense of style, fashion, and creativity, inspired by and always shared with her mother Hariet, a renowned designer.

Missy bonded with her husband's family, which took them to the UK often for many meaningful holidays and escapades...especially Devon and Cornwall.

In addition to her dear husband David, Missy leaves behind her brothers Chuck (Jane) Eckstein of Venice, CA, and Ken (Cynthia) of Simpsonville, SC; her parents predeceased her.

A celebration of Missy's life will be March 28, 2026 at 11am at the Pound Ridge Community Church, followed by a reception to gather and remember. We are comforted that Missy is at peace.